Section 1

Introduction to the Book of Revelation
The Vision
Introduction to the Seven Letters to the Churches
Letter to Ephesus
Letter to Smyrna
Letter to Pergamos
Letter to Thyatira
Letter to Sardis
Letter to Philadelphia
Letter to Laodicea

Introduction to the Book of Revelation

1:1 says "…he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John." "Signified" is the Greek word "Semaino" meaning to give a sign or to express or reveal by signs. God in his infinite wisdom has chosen to use the language of symbolism and imagery to communicate this Revelation.

How can we unlock the symbolism of this book? Mainly by comparing scripture with scripture (2 Peter 1:20) do we understand its symbolism. This Revelation is profoundly positioned as the last book of the Bible. It not only contains prophecy of last things, but it is in its nature a climax to all Biblical revelation. We in part find understanding of the symbolism in Revelation by understanding previously given symbolism. Some examples include: 1) The Four Living Creatures Ezekiel 1:5; Revelation 4:6 2) The 7 Churches of Asia were both literal and symbolic. As the New Testament Epistles were relevant to a first century Church so they are still relevant today. 3) Water of Life John 4:14; Revelation 21:6 This Revelation with all its symbolism was given to John by God's "angel". John himself was puzzled as to the role of this "angel" and eventually falls at his feet in 22:8 to worship him. In verse 9, the angel rebuked him saying he was only a "fellow servant" and that John must only "worship God". The Believer must keep in constant remembrance amidst all the majesty of God's Grace that all the glory belongs to God and we are just "His messengers".

The Scribe of this Book (1:2)

Revelation 1:1 …unto His servant John 2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.

The Apostle John

He bare record (1:2; John 1:1-14)

He gave witness (I John 1:1-3; 20:31)

The Value of this Book (1:3)

It is rewarding

"Blessed" - happy, spiritually prosperous, one to be envied

"He that readeth"

"They that hear the words"

"And keep those things which are written"

It is enlightening (22:10)

Revelation 22:10--Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand.

The Premise of this Book(1:4-9)

We will search out the source, subject, substance and circumstances of the book of Revelation.

The Sources of this Revelation (1:4,5)

John

He is the writer - the Scribe

The Father

"Which is, which was, and which is to come."

The Spirit

"From the seven Spirits which are before His throne;"

SEVEN: "Hepta" - signifying to be full - "Pneuma" "Spirit" . Therefore, meaning: a "Seven-fold spirit". God is described here in the fullness of His office and powers.

The Son

"And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth."

The Subjects of this Revelation

The Churches

"To the Seven Churches in Asia" v. 4 not church but "churches".

Their location (Asia) - v. 4

Their need - v. 7

Each church had unique needs and problems so a special message is addressed to each of the seven Churches in Asia (Ephesus - Smyrna - Pergamos - etc.)

The Substance of this Revelation

Grace - v 4 G-R-A-C-E: God's Riches At Christ's Expense

Peace - v. 4 Peace from God brings peace with God. Peace with God brings peace with man.

Consolation - v. 7 "Behold He cometh"

Confirmation - v. 8 He will keep His word with you.

The Circumstances of this Revelation v.9

Common Brotherhood - "your brother"

Common Suffering - "companion in tribulation"

Common Royalty - "in the kingdom"

Common Promise - "patience of Jesus Christ"

Common Place - "Patmos-a place of exile"

The Isle of Patmos was a place of EXILE with barren rocks that was located in the open sea. It was in this unfriendly place the awesome revelation was written.

The Vision

The Vision (1:10-20)

The Setting of the Vision (1:10,11)

Received in the Spirit

v. 10 "I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day".

Ezekiel (Ezekiel 37:1) and Paul (I Corinthians 12:2) both speak of a similar "in the spirit" experience. Ezekiel was carried away "in the spirit" to a valley of dry bones. Paul was not sure whether it was in the body or out of the body in which he was caught up to the third heaven. John the Revelator was in a mode and mind of worship when first his ears and then his eyes are opened to the spiritual realm.

There is no suggestion that John is asleep. The book of Revelation is not the results of John's subconscious, but his experience is presented as if a veil were taken away and he began to hear, see and feel some very real things that were previously muted.

This Vision was received in the Spirit and can only be understood in the Spirit.

1 Corinthians 2:14-- But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

This does not mean the book of Revelation cannot be understood, but that in order to fully understand it we must be in that same condition of communion with the Spirit of God as John.

Isaiah, Jeremiah, Jesus, and John all gave a message expressly for those with "ears to hear". We can say that the Bible in its entirety was written for those who would yield their hearts, minds, eyes and ears to the Spirit of God. Some are STUBBORN and cover their eyes and ears (Zechariah 7:11; 2 Timothy 4:4) and others are SENSITIVE and make supplication that their eyes and ears would be unstopped! (Isaiah 50:4; Revelation 3:18)

Isaiah 50:4-- The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.

Given with a Command

Commanded to Record It

v. 11 "What thou seest, write in a book"

This command is not unique to John. Moses (Exodus 17:14), Isaiah (Isaiah 30:8) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 30:2) all mention they were commanded to record what they heard and saw. Two reasons why this is so important to God is that He knows Humans forget and second, the message was not solely for John.

v. 11 "And send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia"

The current situation of the Christian church demanded counsel and hope. They were under oppression and persecution by the Romans led by Domitian. Domitian was the first Roman Emperor who demanded to addressed as "master and god". Domitian was fairly tolerant of other religions than the state religion of Rome and religions like worship of Egyptian deities even flourished during his reign. Domitian was cruel however toward any religion that threatened especially the belief in his own godhood. According to 4th Century AD Eusebius Jews and Christians were heavily persecuted and even a special temple tax was leavied yearly. (The money was to be sent annually the the temple of Jupiter.)

2 Corinthians 4:3-- But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:

As these seven churches of Asia are also symbolic of seven conditions present in every church age, John is writing to us just as much as he was writing to the first century churches. The Revelation was not John's to KEEP, but John's to SHARE.

Announced by a Voice

v. 10 "Heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet.

It was clearly a VOICE that John heard but it was LIKE a TRUMPET--urgent, clear, strong, awakening, and startling.

God revealed Himself to Moses, on Mt.Sinai "voice of a trumpet exceeding loud." (Exodus 19:16) The Temple opened its doors in the morning at the sound of the trumpet. The Year of Jubilee came with the sound of the trumpet. Lev. 25:9,10 The Silence of the Age will be broken by the sound of a trumpet.

I Thessalonians 4:16--The trumpet shall sound and the dead shall be raised.

The Scenes of the Vision (1:12-20)

The First Scene: SEVEN CANDLESTICKS

v. 12 "I saw seven golden candlesticks". v. 20 "And the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches."

The lamp stands - "Candlesticks"

John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Matthew 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

The candlesticks give light, illumination, and revelation which guide us, warn us and make us aware. The Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is a light!

Matthew 4:16-- The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.

Luke 1:79-- To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

John 11:9-- Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world.

2 Corinthians 4:6-- For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

"Golden"

GREAT COST. The candlesticks were composed of the costliest metal.

GREAT BEAUTY. The tabernacle use filled with the use of gold. Gold is expressive of Godliness.

Psalm 96:9-- O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.

"Seven"

There was a candlestick with seven lamps in the tabernacle.

Exodus 25:37-- And thou shalt make the seven lamps thereof: and they shall light the lamps thereof, that they may give light over against it.

Seven is the number of completeness. (Lev. 4:6; Psalm 119:164; Prov. 24:16; Daniel 3:19; Luke 17:4) These seven candlesticks represent the WHOLE Church Age.

The Second Scene: SON OF MAN

CHRIST as The Great High Priest - Priest.

Hebrews 7:26; 8:1; v. 13 "In the midst"

CHRIST as The True Prophet - Prophet

Acts 7:32; Rev. 1:14 "His head and hair white like wool, as white as snow:and His eyes were as a flame of fire…" "His voice as the sound of many waters."

CHRIST as The Only Potentate - King - Lord

I Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:16; Rev. 1:15 "His feet like unto fine brass". This represents Majesty and Judgment. John 5:22. Rev. 1:16 "And out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword." John 12:47-48

The THIRD Scene: SEVEN STARS

The Seven Stars are The Lord's Ministers

v. 16 "And He had in His right hand seven stars." v. 20 "The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand,…are the angels of the seven churches."

God has His ministers in His hand. He holds, controls, owns and will reward them

THE WITNESS: HOW did John Hear and See

Their Companion in Tribulation (on isle of Patmos 13sq miles area and 32 miles from the coast of Asia Minor, exiled there under emperor Domitian) It was in this unfriendly place the awesome revelation was written.

According to Tertullian (in The Prescription of Heretics) John was banished after being plunged into boiling oil in Rome around AD 95.

I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day

<p>"In the Spirit" Ezekiel 37:1 (valley dry bones);  Re 1:10 (in the spirit on the Lord's day); Re 4:2 (And immediately I was in the spirit); Re 17:3 (carried me away in the spirit);

Re 21:10 (he carried me away in the spirit )

Received in the Spirit and to be understood only by the Spirit

1 Corinthians 2:14 — But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

This does not mean the book of Revelation cannot be understood, but that in order to fully understand it we must be in that same condition of communion with the Spirit of God as John.

8 times in Revelation: Re 13:9 If any man have an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith ....

Isaiah 50:4-- The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.

WHAT did John Hear and See (Revelation 1:9-20)

1. His Voice

a great voice
as of a trumpet
his voice as the sound of many waters

It was clearly a VOICE that John heard but it was LIKE a TRUMPET--urgent, clear, strong, awakening, and startling.

I Thessalonians 4:16--The trumpet shall sound and the dead shall be raised.

2. His Age

I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last

3. His Vocation

I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks (v.20)
he had in his right hand seven stars: (v.20)
and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword:

His place is found in the midst of his church (PROPHET, PRIEST, KING)

The candlesticks give light, illumination, and revelation which guide us, warn us and make us aware. The Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is a light! (Zechariah 4:2-6; Numbers 8:1-4)

John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. Matthew 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
Matthew 4:16-- The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. Luke 1:79-- To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. John 11:9-- Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. 2 Corinthians 4:6-- For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

"Golden" GREAT COST. The candlesticks were composed of the costliest metal.

GREAT BEAUTY. The tabernacle use filled with the use of gold. Gold is expressive of Godliness.

Psalm 96:9-- O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.

7 Churches = Entire Church Age. Completeness

God has His ministers in His hand. He holds, controls, owns and will reward them

4. His Divinity - the Christ

one like unto the Son of man
I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen;
and have the keys of hell and of death.

5. His Clothing

clothed with a garment down to the foot,
and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. ( a golden belt Ephesisans 6 truth)

FULLY CLOTHED

Clothing Signified Status

6. His Appearance

His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow;

His Wisdom and "ELDER"ness. Also a reminder of redemption (sins red like crimson "white as snow")

Isa 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

his eyes were as a flame of fire;

Re 2:23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. (innermost parts)

his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace;
his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.
And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead.

Introduction to the Seven Letters to the Churches

Addressed To the Ministers

Revelation 2:1--Unto the angel of the church…

Angel means messenger, Rev. 22:8-9

Revelation 22:8--And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. 9 Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.

It is A Revelation of Ministerial Responsibility

To hear from God, Eze. 3:17

To receive from God, Gal. 1:11-12

To speak for God, Isa. 58:1

To answer to God, II Cor. 5:10

It Is A Revelation of Ministerial Distinction

They are a part of the Church, I Cor. 12:28

I Cor. 12:28--And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

Yet a separate part of the Church, Phil. 2:25,29; I Thess. 5:12,13

Philippians 2:25,29--Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. 29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: [dear; more honorable] I Thessalonians 5:12-13-- And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.

It Is A Revelation of Ministerial Protection

Revelation 2:1--…He that holdeth the seven stars…

Keeps for Himself, John 10:27-28

John 10:27-28-- My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

Keeps from the Enemy, II Tim. 4:16-18

2 Timothy 4:16-18--At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. 17 Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. 18 And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

It Is A Revelation of Ministerial Authority

Revelation 2:1--…In His right hand…

The place of authority, Luke 22:69

It is delegated authority, Luke 9:1

They are His representatives, II Cor. 5:20

Directed To The Churches

Revelation 2:1--…Who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks…

Seven is the number of completeness

To the whole Church

To the whole Age

Seven Gentile churches

No letter for the church at Jerusalem

He will have a Gentile bride

Seven churches Paul wrote to

Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians

Personal letters to Timothy, Titus and Philemon

Believe to have written Hebrews to the people

Seven letters John wrote to the Seven Churches

Ephesus,Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea

He wrote the Gospel of John, the three Epistles and Revelation, Not addressed to the churches as such

Seven distinct parts in each letter

An address -- "Unto the church in…"

A citation -- "These things saith He…"

A statement of knowledge -- "I Know thy works"

A description of moral status -- "Thou art…"

A personal application to the individual -- "he that hath an ear…"

A command -- "Remember", "Repent" etc.

A promise -- "To him that overcometh will I…"

Out of the seven, Christ finds fault with five

One of these He finds nothing to commend (Laodicea)

Two alone pass inspection (Pergamos and Philadelphia)

Pergamos--thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith. Philadelphia--hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Yet they are in contact with elements which He condemns

OVERVIEW OF THE SEVEN CHURCHES
Church	Time	Commendation	Condemnation	Counsel	Challenge
Ephesus	Apostolic	Faithful in service; Hated deeds of Nicolaitanes	Left First Love	Repent	Eat of the Tree of Life
Smyrna	Persecution	Faithful in persecution; poor, but rich.	None	Fear not; be faithful	Not hurt of the second death
Pergamos	Imperial Favor	Did not deny the faith inspite of satan	Doctrine of Nicolaitanes, Balaam	Repent	Eat hidden mannah, white stone, new name
Thyatira	Papacy	Good works, charity, service, faith, patience	Wicked Woman Jezebel	Hold fast till I come	Power over nations; Morning Star
Sardis	Reformation	Faithful few are worthy	Dead works; not perfect	Be watchful; hold fast; repent	White raiment; Confessed before Father
Philadelphia	Present Day	Kept His Word; Did not deny His name	None	Hold fast which thou hast	Pillar in the Temple; New name
Laodicea	Present Day	None	Lukewarm; blind, naked	Buy of me gold, raiment, eyesalve	Sit with Christ on His throne

Letter to Ephesus

The First Letter: Ephesus

Messenger - "Paul"

The Messenger to this Church age is believed to be the Apostle Paul. He was the messenger to the first age of the Gentile era. Galatians 2:6-9; Romans 11:13; Galatians 1:12-19; Galatians 2:2; II Corinthians 12:12

He was the pastor of the church in Ephesus for about 2 years. Acts 19:10. Paul founded the church at Ephesus about the middle of the first century.About 53 A.D.

The Ephesus Age really began at Pentecost. At the beginning of the church age

City - "Ephesus"

One of the three greatest cities of Asia A very rich city - It was known as a free city; Government — Roman; Language - Greek

The name "Ephesus" means relaxed; drifting; Today Ephesus is in utter ruin. Ephesus is a witness to those who leave their first love.

Commendation - vs. 2-3

For their works

Their labor

Their patience

Separation from evil

Discernment of falsehood

Complaint - vs. 4-5

Remember

Repent

Return

Remove or Else

"I will come unto thee quickly and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

Commendation - v. 6

This is "Sandwich Psychology."

"The deeds of the Nicolaitans"

"Nikao" to conquer

"Laos" the people, the Laity (Organization)

Counsel - v. 7

He that hath an ear let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; to him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

Letter to Smyrna

The Second Letter: Smyrna

Messenger - "Iraneaus"

Unto the angel of the church in Smyrna

The Messenger the Smyrna church age is believed to be Iraneaus. He was a disciple of Polycarp. He was strongly against any form of human organization. He had much manifestation of the Holy Ghost

The Word was taught with the original precepts. The Gifts of the Spirit manifested in his churches. The Saints spoke in tongues, prophesied, healed the sick, and raised the dead.

City - "Smyrna"

Smyrna was a commercial center and was distinguished for its schools of rhetoric, philosophy, medicine, sciences, and fine buildings

Many Jews lived in Smyrna and bitterly opposed Christianity. The meaning of the name "Smyrna" Myrrh-Bitter. Myrrh was used in embalming the dead.

It was a poor church in the midst of poverty - vs. 9,10

The Age lasted 170 to 312 AD

Commendation vs. 9

Their works - tribulation - poverty

They were rich spiritually "But thou art rich"

No complaint against this church

The key to this age was tribulation. You have to suffer to reign

"Ten days" - "Ten years" v. 10

Under Diocletian cruelest of all emperors 302-312

Caution v.10

Fear not"Fear none of these things"

Be faithful"Be thou faithful"

You will be tried

Promise

A gift "I will give"

A crown of life

Not hurt of the second death v. 11

Counsel vs. 11

Listen to the Spirit

Be an overcomer

Letter to Pergamos

The Third Letter: Pergamos

Messenger - "Martin of Tours"

Martin of Tours (France). "Unto the angel of the Church"

His conversion took place after helping a poor beggar, took his own coat and cut it in two with his sword, wrapped the man in it and went his way. That night the Lord appeared unto him, in a vision, wrapped in the half of Martin's garment. He spoke to him, "Martin, though he is only a common soldier, has clothed Me with his garment." From that time on he sought to serve the Lord. His life was a series of miracles.After leaving the army, he became a leader in the church, he became very militant against idolatry. Challenged the pagans as Elijah did the False Prophets. He offered to be tied to a tree on its underside so that when it was cut down it would crush him unless God intervened. They tied him to a tree that was growing on the side of a hill, assured that the natural pull of gravity would fall and crush him. Just as the tree began to fall, God swung it around uphill and crushed several of the heathens as they were fleeing. Raised a man to life that had been hung for his faith.

Martin wanted to see the emperor—he was refused audience. Martin laid at the gate and prayed. The iron gate opened and he heard a voice bidding him to rise. The ruler would not turn his head to speak to him. Martin prayed. Suddenly a fire came spontaneously from the seat of the throne and the emperor vacated speedily.

They came to kill him.He stood erect and bared his throat to the sword. As they leaped forward, the power of God hurled them back across the room. So overcome with fear, they begged forgiveness.

City - "Pergamos"

The name "Pergamos" expresses the idea of a tower. Pergamos was the most illustrious city in Asia. It was also a city of great sin. They worshipped an idol in a form of a living serpent, housed and fed in the temple.

v. 13 "Even where Satan's seat is" How did it become the seat of Satan? Babylon fell - to the Medes and Persians. The priest, A Halus - fled the city and went to Pergamos and started over.

The Age lasted 312 - 606 A.D.

Commendation - vs. 13

Their labor

Their stand under oppression

Not a thing of location, but of character. I know thy works and where thou dwellest,…Even where Satan's seat is:

Did not deny His Name

And thou holdest fast my name.

Did not deny the faith

And hast not denied my faith

Was not affected by Martyrdom

Antipas was my faithful martyr Who was slain among you

Complaint - vs. 14,15

"But I have a few things against thee"

Doctrine of Balaam -

Who taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel. [Numbers 25:1-9]

To eat things sacrificed unto idols

And to commit fornication

Doctrine of the Nicolaitanes -

They were deeds in the Ephesus age - now a doctrine

Caution - vs. 16

v. 16 "Repent or else"

"I will come unto thee quickly."

"And will fight against them" etc.

Counsel - vs. 17

"He that hath an ear"

"To him that overcometh"

"Will I give to eat of the Hidden Manna"

Manna kept in the Ark - In the Most Holy Place - Beyond the veil. It was angel food. It kept them well - none were sick

"The Hidden Manna" The Truth and Secrets of God. I Corinthians 2:9-10; Ephesians 1:18

"And will give him a white stone"

"And in the stone a new name written"

Two things: Victor's stone King's name - High Priest King's name God's name

Letter to Thyatira

The Fourth Letter: Thyatira

Revelation 2:18-29

Messenger

Believed to be Columba.He was a brilliant, consecrated scholar. Committed to memory most of the Scripture. Called by an audible voice to be a missionary. In one missionary journey, he approached a walled city. The gates were barred. He lifted his voice in prayer. As he prayed, the court magicians harassed him with loud noises. He began to sing a Psalm. The gates opened of their own accord. He preached the Gospel. Many were saved. At another village:The son of a chief became violently sick. Southwest coast of Scotland he founded a Bible school.

City - "Thyatira"

Historically: The city of Thyatira was the least noteworthy of all the Seven Churches.

It was well off financially.

The name Thyatira means "Dominating Female"

"Feminine Oppression" Ecclesiastes 7:25-28

A woman was not meant to have an iron-like disposition, nor wear that which pertains to a man, or cut her hair. Deuteronomy 22:5I Corinthians 11:4-7, 13-16

The Jezebel spirit was dominating in this church, taking authority and perverting the truth. The Roman church, which is represented by this spirit of Jezebel, was as heathen and wicked as Athalia, who tried to destroy all the seed royal. This Age lasted the longest of all - about 900 years. From 606 AD - 1520 AD

Commendation

v. 19 "I know thy works"

"Eido" suggests fullness of knowledge

Two aspects of truth presented here:

Love - service

"And charity and service"

Faith - patience

"And faith and patience"

In the Church of Ephesus, their doctrine was right, but lacked love. Here, they had love but lacked doctrine.

"And works"

The last to be more than the first. Their last works…better than their first

There was growth.

Complaint v. 20

"Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee."

Wicked Seducers - Called Jezebel

Allowed to teach

Allowed to seduce - His "servants"

"To commit fornication"

"To eat things sacrificed to idols"

Caution - vv. 21-23

A demand to repent - v. 21

A warning of judgment - vv. 22,23

Counsel -- vv. 24-29

"Hold fast to what you have" - v. 25

He will give more - v. 26

Listen to the Spirit - v. 29

Covenant To the Overcomer- vv. 26-28

Power over the Nations

Rule with a Rod of Iron

Give him the Morning Star

Letter to Sardis

The Fifth Letter: Sardis

Revelation 3:1-6

Messenger - "Martin Luther"

"Unto the angel of the church in Sardis"

Martin Luther was a brilliant scholar of gentle disposition. He had been studying to be a lawyer when the death of a friend caused him to become serious concerning the spiritual condition of his own life. He soon entered the Augustinian convent at Erfurt in 1505 where he studied philosophy and also the Word of God

Luther lived a life of severe penance but all his self affliction was in vain.

I tormented myself to death to make peace with God, but I was in darkness and found it not. --Martin Luther

Martin Luther became a priest. On a visit to Rome he saw the futility of the Church's works.

The Word of God struck his heart. "The Just Shall Live By Faith" Mixing the Word of God with faith, Martin Luther was Born-again into the Family of God

Luther fought against anti-scriptural teaching. When Leo X became Pope, and John Tetzel came to sell indulgences for sin, Luther first preached against it in his pulpit and then wrote his famous 95 thesis. On October 31, 1517 he nailed his 95 thesis to the door of the Wittenberg Cathedral. He preached emphatically the Doctrine of Justification By Faith

Luther translated the N.T. and gave it to the people in their own language. Aided by Hebrew scholars, he translated the O.T.

It was recorded in Sauer's History Vol. 3, p. 406 that Luther was:

a prophet, evangelist, speaker in tongues, interpreter, in one person endowed with all nine gifts of the Spirit.

City - "Sardis"

Sardis was the capital of ancient Lydia. At one time, it was very important commercially. Sardis was destroyed by an earthquake in AD 17, but it was rebuilt. It was one of the great cities of western Asia Minor until the later Byzantine period. It fell out of importance as newer networks of roads and commerce bypassed the city. Today it is a heap of ruins and largely uninhabited.

"Sardis" means The Escaped One. The age lasted from 1520 to 1750. The Sardis Church Age is called the Age of Reformation.

Complaint - v. 1

Works

Profession

Form

Caution - vv. 2,3

The Need

The need for vigilance, prayer,change,study,endurance,repentance

A Warning of Judgment

Commendation

Garments not defiled

Some walking in righteousness

Blood sacrifice - Divine Nature - Heavenly Character

Some found worthy

Counsel

To Overcome - vv. 5,6

Clothed in white raiment

Name not blotted out

Name confessed in Heaven

To Hear - v. 6

Letter to Philadelphia

The Sixth Letter: Philadelphia

Revelation 3:7-13

Messenger

"To the angel of the church in Philadelphia"

John Wesley was born at Epworth, June 17, 1703 and died at the age of 88. He was one of nineteen children born to Samuel and Susanna Wesley. John was a brilliant scholar. He was later born again. He preached with power. The Spirit was so mightily manifested that the people would fall to the ground crying in great distress over their sins. He believed in the power of God. He prayed for the sick with results. John and Charles, his brother, drew up a spiritual guide of works. For this they were called Methodists.

City - "Philadelphia"

It was the second largest city in Lydia.It was built upon several hills in a famous wine-growing district.Its duration was the longest of the seven cities. It still exists under a Turkish name - City of God.

The Age lasted from 1750 to about 1900.Called the Age of Brotherly Love. "Philadelphia" means: love of brethren.

Commendation

Revelation 3:8 "I know their works"

Their works were good

He knows whether they are good or bad.

They had an open door

"I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it."

The Missionary effort of that age. William Carey affected a missionary program.Out of this came Spurgeon, Parker, McClaren, Edwards, Bunyan, Mueller, Barnes, Bishop

Also- "I am the door of the sheep" At night they go home and leave the animals, but the shepherd of sheep takes them to the fold and then lays down and becomes the door.

They had a little strength

The Word was preached well but they lacked the mighty power of the Holy Ghost Baptism.

They kept His Word

"And hast kept my word"

They did not deny His name

"And hast not denied my name"

Complaint

Revelation 3:9 -- Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I loved thee.

Hypocrisy "say they are Jews"

Falsehood "But do lie"

Commendation v. 10

Kept the Word

With patience

Hebrews 11:17, Abraham was tried, after, he received the promise. Psalm 105:19

A reward promised

"I also will keep thee"

"From the hour of temptation"

Not in but from - The Bride - Six Age - Enoch "Which shall come upon all the world" "To try them that dwell upon the earth"

Section 1

Introduction to the Book of Revelation

The Scribe of this Book (1:2)

The Apostle John

He bare record (1:2; John 1:1-14)

He gave witness (I John 1:1-3; 20:31)

The Value of this Book (1:3)

It is rewarding

"He that readeth"

"They that hear the words"

"And keep those things which are written"

It is enlightening (22:10)

The Premise of this Book(1:4-9)

The Sources of this Revelation (1:4,5)

John

The Father

The Spirit

The Son

The Subjects of this Revelation

The Churches

Their location (Asia) - v. 4

Their need - v. 7

The Substance of this Revelation

Grace - v 4 G-R-A-C-E: God's Riches At Christ's Expense

Peace - v. 4 Peace from God brings peace with God. Peace with God brings peace with man.

Consolation - v. 7 "Behold He cometh"

Confirmation - v. 8 He will keep His word with you.

The Circumstances of this Revelation v.9

Common Brotherhood - "your brother"

Common Suffering - "companion in tribulation"

Common Royalty - "in the kingdom"

Common Promise - "patience of Jesus Christ"

Common Place - "Patmos-a place of exile"

The Vision

The Vision (1:10-20)

The Setting of the Vision (1:10,11)

Received in the Spirit

Given with a Command

Commanded to Record It

Commanded to Share It

Announced by a Voice

The Scenes of the Vision (1:12-20)

The First Scene: SEVEN CANDLESTICKS

The lamp stands - "Candlesticks"

"Golden"

"Seven"

The Second Scene: SON OF MAN

CHRIST as The Great High Priest - Priest.

CHRIST as The True Prophet - Prophet

CHRIST as The Only Potentate - King - Lord

The THIRD Scene: SEVEN STARS

The Seven Stars are The Lord's Ministers

God has His ministers in His hand. He holds, controls, owns and will reward them

THE WITNESS: HOW did John Hear and See

WHAT did John Hear and See (Revelation 1:9-20)

1. His Voice

2. His Age

3. His Vocation

4. His Divinity - the Christ

5. His Clothing

6. His Appearance

Introduction to the Seven Letters to the Churches

Addressed To the Ministers

It is A Revelation of Ministerial Responsibility

To hear from God, Eze. 3:17

To receive from God, Gal. 1:11-12

To speak for God, Isa. 58:1

To answer to God, II Cor. 5:10

It Is A Revelation of Ministerial Distinction

They are a part of the Church, I Cor. 12:28

Yet a separate part of the Church, Phil. 2:25,29; I Thess. 5:12,13

It Is A Revelation of Ministerial Protection

Keeps for Himself, John 10:27-28

Keeps from the Enemy, II Tim. 4:16-18

It Is A Revelation of Ministerial Authority

The place of authority, Luke 22:69

It is delegated authority, Luke 9:1

They are His representatives, II Cor. 5:20

Directed To The Churches

Seven is the number of completeness